Lehi City News
Thefts, scams and crimes spike during the holidays, Police offer tips
‘Tis the season, for potential thefts, scams and holiday crimes according to Lieutenant Kenny Rose of the Lehi City Police Department. “The Lehi City Police Department wishes everyone a safe, happy and peaceful holiday season. This is a special time of year, but it’s also the time of year when we experience a spike in certain crimes, such as burglaries, thefts (especially porch thefts) and fraud. We can all do more to protect ourselves and our loved ones from becoming a victim this season,” said Lt. Rose.
Lt. Rose offered the following holiday safety tips for Lehi residents and encourages everyone to share with family friends and neighbors:
At Home
-Whenever possible schedule the delivery of packages to your home while someone is home and can retrieve them immediately. If not possible, talk to family and neighbors to keep an eye out for deliveries and they can hang on to them for you until you return home.
-Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes. Consider keeping your doors locked even when at home.
-When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
-Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer, leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
-Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
-Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
-It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.
Shopping
-Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
-Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible. Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
-Stay alert to your surroundings.
-Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
-Keep cash in your front pocket.
-Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
-Keep a record of all your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
-Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, “con-artists” may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money and/or belongings.
Driving
-Avoid driving alone or at night.
-Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
-If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.
-Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
-Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
-Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
-Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.
-When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
-Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area, ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
-If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a mall, or well-lighted location. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
-Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.
-Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.
